Hotwire’s Top 10 Best Places for Bargains: The South

Hotwire started with 50 most-visited destinations in the United States as defined by the Travel Industry Association of America. Next, they scored each destination on 3 categories (1-100 points each). The categories are:
Low rates on air, rental car and hotel
Discounts on air, rental car and hotel
Affordable entertainment and overall appeal

Based on these criteria, they picked the top 10 bargain cities. In the South, four places made the top ten:

4. Knoxville, TN
The original capital of Tennessee offers deep discounts (84) and low prices (68). Visitors will find a variety of historic, cultural and scenic attractions, all hugged by the Great Smoky, Cumberland and Blue Ridge mountains. Enjoy these great bargains:
* Four trolley lines that serve the entire city (free)
* More than 100 concerts each year at the University of Tennessee (free)

5. Tampa-St. Petersburg-Sarasota, FL
Beach-lovers vacationing in these cities along the Gulf Coast enjoy low-priced hotels and affordable entertainment. Tourists flock here in the winter, so visit in summer to find better bargains and beat the crowds at popular attractions including Busch Gardens. Enjoy these great deals:
* Myakka River State Park, one of the most diverse nature areas in Florida ($5)
* Florida Aquarium, featuring more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals (free to $18)

7. Orlando-Daytona Beach, FL
These central Florida destinations attract beach-lovers who want low prices (72) and affordable entertainment. Blessed with a heavenly climate, this area is known as theme-park capital of the world, home to SeaWorld, Disney World and more. Enjoy these great bargains:
* Saturday nights in Old Town, featuring rock concerts and classic-car cruising (free)
* Guided tours of the Daytona Speedway, home of the Daytona 500 ($10)

9. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
Dallas offers savvy travelers a combination of low prices and affordable entertainment. Shop for bargains at Grapevine Mills Outlet Mall or enjoy these great destinations:
* Hiking and biking trails connecting White Rock Lake and White Rock Creek Park ($5 to $10)
* Fair Park’s Hall of State and African-American museums (free)

Hurry up and book a Hotwire vacation - and save a bundle!